Capitol Hill, Monrovia – Representative Yekeh Kolubah of District #10 is the subject of an investigation into his actions, but Sumo Mulbah Montserrado County District #3, has taken the initiative to call for Kolubah’s removal from the Plenary.
During the special session of the 55th Legislature, the Plenary authorized its Rules, Order, and Administration Committee to investigate Representative Kolubah’s alleged misconduct and statements that were deemed to be against the national interest.
The Plenary’s decision comes after two separate communications: one from Representative Sumo demanding Kolubah’s expulsion due to misconduct and a breach of his oath of office, and another from the Inspector General of Police, Gregory O. Coleman expressing concerns about the Republic’s stability, public safety, and national security.
Representative Kolubah’s recent public statements are the issue at hand. He reportedly stated in his declarations that Guinea is the rightful owner of the territory that is presently in dispute between the Republic of Guinea and the Republic of Liberia without offering any solid legal, diplomatic, or treaty support.
Such assertions run the risk of confusing affected populations, raising concerns, and possibly causing instability or conflict, particularly during a period of increased sensitivity along the Liberia-Guinea border, according to Police IG Gregory Coleman. Lawmakers also expressed worry that the comments could threaten the government’s ongoing efforts to maintain peace and security in critical border areas.
The LNP Inspector also voiced concern about allegations that the claims have begun to be cited and promoted by Guinean authorities and related parties. This can make Liberia’s diplomatic situation more difficult and inadvertently give other parties’ territorial claims credence.
As a sitting lawmaker, Kolubah has a greater need to apply caution, precision, and a steadfast dedication to the national interest, particularly when it comes to matters of sovereignty and territorial integrity, according to the Police IG. IG Coleman noted that preliminary investigations indicate that such behavior may be on the verge of a breach of peace, especially when remarks are made carelessly and are likely to cause instability, alarm, or tension.
Despite the seriousness of the issues, the Plenary emphasized the value of due process and institutional integrity, pointing out that the issue should be handled internally in accordance with the separation of powers concept and statutory procedures.
Legislative sources claim that at least 36 House members have joined the campaign to have Kolubah expelled, showing rising support for disciplinary action within the chamber. Legislators who support the action argue that the comments damage Liberia’s diplomatic standing, compromise its sovereignty, and damage the Legislature’s reputation.
Article 62 of the Liberian Constitution, which enumerates misconduct and egregious duty violations as grounds for impeachment, serves as the foundation for the accusations. The case also references Article 20(a), which emphasizes the obligation of public employees to safeguard the republic’s territorial integrity. The issue has sparked political dissatisfaction and concerns about broader implications for Liberia’s democracy. The activity was described as a well-planned political step by Citizens Movement for Change Representative Musa Hassan Bility of Nimba County District #7.
According to Rep. Musa Bility of Nimba County, ” We are entering a dangerous phase of our democratic governance,” in a social media post. Bility’s comments show how the Legislature is becoming increasingly divided; some politicians consider the move against Kolubah as a threat to political dissent and free speech, while others see it as necessary to protect the country’s interests.
After the written communication was read, Montserrado County Electoral District #4 representative, Atty. Michael Thomas filed a motion asking the Rules, Order, and Administration Committee to carry out a comprehensive inquiry and present its conclusions to the Plenary during the current Special Session. Representative Kolubah has been urged by House Speaker Richard Nagbe Koon to completely submit to the investigation process in compliance with the House’s established norms and procedures.
As mandated by the Constitution, the case may be sent to the Senate for trial if the committee recommends impeachment and the House moves forward. Kolubah might be removed from office and banned from running for public office in the future if found guilty.
